There are several reasons why you would want to encrypt files. Right off the top of my head I can think of three. Reason number one is that you share your computer with someone else (a sibling, a spouse, your children) and you want your private files to remain private. Reason number 2 is that you have some important files that you want to send to someone and you want to make sure that nobody can take a sneak peak at them while they’re in transit. And the third reason is that you might lose your laptop while traveling and you don’t want your private, potentially sensitive information to be compromised.

You can encrypt any file (or folder) on your computer with the help of the CP-Lab-developed application, the appropriately named File Encryption XP. The application uses a strong Blowfish algorithm with 384-bit key to ensure that your files are safe and protected.

To get started with File Encryption XP you must first get a 1.4MB installation file off the web and onto your computer. Then you must install the application on your Windows-powered machine; File Encryption XP works with any Windows version from Windows 95 up to Windows 7 and it also works on removable media. A setup wizard will quickly guide you through the installation process.

The application’s interface will not pose a problem, even if you are a novice. File Encryption XP presents an Explorer-like navigation pane that you can use to locate the files or folders you want to encrypt. At the top, big icons present its main functions: encrypt, decrypt, encrypt to EXE (meaning you can create self-extracting encrypted files that you can send to others; when they provide the correct password, the files will be decrypted), and wipe (securely deletes your files so they are not brought back to life with data recovery tools).

It is important that you do not choose an easily guessable password for the files your encrypt. Sometimes it can be hard to think of a strong password. Luckily, File Encryption XP comes with a Password Generator function. When you can’t think of a secure password, let this application suggest one to you.

You have 30 days at your disposal to test File Encryption XP for free and see if it meets your needs. Once that trial period is over, you will have to get a license to keep using the application.

Ease of use, Blowfish encryption, and the fact that File Encryption XP is optimized to work on removable media make it a very useful tool to have by your side.

Pros File Encryption XP can be installed on any Windows-powered machine and it can be installed on removable media as well. Use this application to encrypt, decrypt, and wipe files and folders. You can create self-extracting encypted files. File Encryption XP uses a strong Blowfish encryption algorithm. There’s a built-in password generator and there are several skins to choose from.

File Encryption XP has been reviewed by George Norman on
20 Feb 2012. Based on the user interface, features and complexity, Findmysoft has rated
File Encryption XP 4
out of 5 stars, naming it Excellent